Something For Sunday
by Elijah Gaines
It’s clear from the title that this article targets young individuals, particularly those aged 14 to 30. Before delving into the purpose of what I wish to share, I’d like to clarify a few points. First, I want to emphasize that, as a young person, I don’t have all the answers; I’m still on my journey to discover them. Second, this piece will be influenced by my personal experiences, observations, and opinions. Third, for those outside the young demographic, it’s important to recognize that your leadership can inspire and engage young people in the Church. Lastly, I want to apologize for any quirky analogies I might use; my goal is to convey a vision and underscore the significance of this discussion.
The Bible consists of 66 books that explore the life of Jesus Christ from beginning to end. Scripture says that Jesus is the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, and our lives reflect this model. Just as infants are blissfully unaware of the world around them, filled with wonder and curiosity, so too were those who first encountered Jesus. The early stages of life are essentially about growth and learning.
As we transition into adulthood, societal pressures influence our attention on becoming adults. We observe what life looks like in adulthood — in the church, through authentic praise and worship, deep gratitude for Jesus, and unwavering faithfulness. However, even as we age, the Bible calls us to maintain a childlike spirit—one characterized by curiosity, humility, trust, and a reliance on God. To those who lead us, we look to you as tangible examples of faith. You are the living examples we young folks strive to emulate. So, I ask that you continue to lead by example, and we will follow.
Also, by Gaines: https://reelurbannews.com/what-really-keeps-fans-glued-to-the-game-skill-or-show/
Just as Scripture shows us the beginning and the end, it is crucial to recognize the middle ground we must navigate while we await the second coming. I believe this middle ground exists in the present, and we, as young people, are actively engaged in it. Although our curiosity drives us, many of us allow fears and distractions to shape our spiritual journeys. To my peers, your presence in the church is not just valuable, it is essential.
Having recently crossed the significant milestone of turning 30, I faced a wave of discontent about my life thus far. I approached this age with apprehension—not due to societal expectations, but because of my views of what life should look like at 30. I found myself anxious about the uncertainty and fearful I had fallen behind. It felt as if I had squandered opportunities and mishandled blessings, questioning if I was truly where I needed to be. I share all this to illustrate my experience of the middle ground. As young people, we spend so much time, energy, and effort (sometimes even money) seeking navigation and guidance from societal standards, setting unrealistic barriers on ourselves based on external comparisons. This often leads to a perpetual feeling of inadequacy, as though we are in a constant game of catch-up.
Here’s where we can improve, and I’ve learned this throughout my journey. If we dedicated even half the energy we spend on societal metrics to knowing Jesus and being active in His house, the limitations we impose on ourselves would be incomparable to the limitless potential of God’s work. Scripture says in Ephesians 3:20, “God can do anything, you know, far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around, but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us” (Message version). Whatever ambitions or realities we envision for ourselves, God can exceed those dreams. It’s one thing to hear phrases like, God can make a way out of no way, or What God can do for others, He can do for you. Let me share how witnessing this has strengthened my relationship with God. In my childhood, I didn’t genuinely know God; I couldn’t describe His appearance or articulate His words. However, I was aware of Him thanks to my mother’s spiritual influence. I sat in church, distracted by my Gameboy and snacks, but over the years, I engaged in prayer, took communion, sang in the choir, and even got baptized. Still, my understanding of Him was surface level, yet I felt His presence.
Throughout much of my teenage years, I stepped away from church as basketball consumed my schedule. Though I continued to pray, my connection with Jesus shifted. Bed-side Baptist accepted me as a member of their congregation, and it stayed that way for quite some time. As time passed, I found myself in a state of spiritual lukewarmness, sometimes diving into my Bible while on other days, I merely skimmed a devotional before moving on with my life. In 2020, I made a pivotal decision to rededicate my life to Christ and joined Mt. Gaza Baptist Church a couple of years later. In my three years of attending, I’ve witnessed multiple people show reverence to God as their Lord and Savior. I have seen Him make a way out of no way, such as when bills were paid despite scarce funds and lives were drastically transformed, limits were shattered, and doctors were proven wrong through divine intervention. Listen, I can go on and on about the work of the Lord. Selfishly, I also adopted the phrase: “God, I’ve seen what you’ve done for others.” And indeed, He revealed His goodness to me by answering my prayers. When I faced financial barriers to returning to school, He blessed me with a community of generous individuals who supported my journey toward a master’s degree. God continues to turn my circumstances around each day, and my commitment to Him plays an integral role in that transformation.
Let me clarify, simply attending church is not a guarantee of receiving blessings. It’s important to approach church not as a checkbox or as a refuge in times of crisis. Don’t postpone your commitment to Christ until you feel you need Him. Instead, invest consistently in your spiritual journey. Immerse yourself in the Scriptures, seek the company of wise and faithful individuals, and embrace the abundant life you were designed to live through the grace and mercy of Jesus Christ. Now is the time to deepen your relationship with Him like never before.
Dear young leaders, we stand on the brink of a new chapter in our faith journey, ready to carry forth the teachings of our church with passion and dedication. It is our responsibility to embrace the legacy left by those who came before us and set an example for the next generation. The key to thriving in life is opening the one book that holds answers to every challenge we may face. The secret is also found in being present in the House of the Lord, drawing strength and guidance from our faith community. I earnestly pray that everyone reading this reflects on the importance of dedicating their lives to Christ. May you and your family be shielded and blessed in every area of your lives. I pray for clarity of mind, strength of body, and a heart aligned with God’s will. May you become a beacon of light for those around you, embodying the grace and mercy that God so generously offers. I hope this message serves as a source of encouragement and inspires you to share it with someone who might need this reminder. To our esteemed elder generations, thank you for your unwavering faith, leadership, guidance, and authenticity—your impact is deeply appreciated. As young people, we are next in line to boldly declare our faith in Jesus, to share His word, and to invite others to experience the greatest gift we could ever receive.
